According to Ramaswamy and Youngdahl (2013), many leaders inadvertently hinder superior performance. Have you been drawn into the 'hindrance trap?' The authors asked three key questions:

1. Are employees clear on the purpose and direction driving their work?
2. Do our leaders account for and respect the need for organizational capacity required to carry out their strategic intent?
3. Do our policies promote or inhibit effectiveness?

This article made me think critically about how I work with my teams and ask myself where I might be an obstacle to their effectiveness or an enabler of it. Have you reflected on the role you play in helping your teams deliver positive performance outcomes? Read on...